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Liberty Ridge Brisket

Liberty Ridge Brisket is a savory and flavorful dish featuring a harmonious blend of spices and a rich marinade, slow-cooked to perfect tenderness. Perfect for a hearty dinner.

Difficulty
Difficulty
Medium
Prep Time
Prep Time
240 min
Cost
Cost
Medium
Calories
560
Protein
45g
Sugar
10g
NEW

Liberty Ridge Brisket

Introduction

The Liberty Ridge Brisket is a timeless classic hailing from Texas, revered for its rich flavor profile and tender texture. Barbecued brisket has long been a staple of American cuisine, with settlers in cattle ranching states such as Texas perfecting the art of slowly cooking this cut to eke out every ounce of flavor. Traditionally reserved for occasions or holidays, the brisket has since become a beloved household dish, thanks to its delightful depth of flavor and versatility.

Background

The brisket cut comes from the lower chest region of the beef, consisting of firm connective tissue that requires a lengthy and methodical cooking process to tenderize. It pairs perfectly with American BBQ culture, which centers around slow-cooking meats over indirect heat. Over time, regions like Texas have put their own spin on the dish – incorporating local spices, wood-smoked flavors, and even their unique sauces to enhance the meat's intrinsic qualities.

Ingredients

Marinade

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Brisket

Begin by trimming excess fat off the brisket, but ensure to leave a layer for flavor during smoking. Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, honey, and lemon juice. Place the trimmed brisket in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring even coverage. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours or overnight for optimal absorption.

Step 2: Rub the Spices

Once marinated, remove the brisket from the dish and pat dry with paper towels. Combine salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar into a bowl. Generously rub this spice mix all over the brisket, pressing it into the meat to ensure the spices adhere well.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Prepare your smoker or grill for indirect cooking, aiming for a temperature around 225°F. Use hardwood chips such as hickory or mesquite for authentic BBQ smoke flavor. Plan to smoke the brisket for about 6-8 hours, depending on size and desired tenderness (cooking timer might be helpful).

Cooking Process

Step 1: Smoking the Brisket

Place the brisket fat side up on the grill's cooler side, not directly over the heat source. Cover the grill and allow the brisket to smoke slowly, absorbing flavors from the spices and wood chips. Maintain consistent heat throughout the process.

Step 2: Wrapping the Brisket

After about 4 hours of smoking or when the internal temperature reaches approximately 150°F, wrap the brisket in butcher paper or foil. This wrapping helps retain moisture and allows continued cooking without further smoke exposure. Pour in the mixture of apple cider vinegar and beef broth before sealing the foil to ensure the brisket remains juicy.

Step 3: Final Cooking

Place the wrapped brisket back on the grill and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches about 203°F, generally after another 2-4 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.

Enjoying the Liberty Ridge Brisket

Once cooked, allow the brisket to rest for at least 30 minutes to an hour before slicing. This step ensures the juices redistribute within the meat, increasing tenderness. Cut against the grain to guarantee slices are tender. Serve with classic accompaniments such as coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or cornbread. A side of pickles can add a refreshing contrast to the smoky richness of the brisket.

For a modern twist, consider utilizing brisket leftovers in sandwiches or tacos. Pair with your favorite sides and drinks to create a wholesome and satisfying meal.

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